Position Type: Seasonal-term employment, average of 16–32 hours per week. Non-Exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
Description: The Barista/Bistro Team Member supports the daily operations of Reed's Bistro by preparing high-quality coffee and espresso beverages, providing exceptional guest service, and assisting with café operations in a fast-paced environment. Reporting to the Front of House Manager, this position plays a key role in maintaining beverage quality, operational efficiency, and a welcoming guest experience that reflects Norfolk Botanical Garden's commitment to hospitality and excellence. The ideal candidate is friendly, dependable, and passionate about coffee and customer service. This position is scheduled based on operational needs and requires availability to work mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.
Essential Functions:
· Prepare espresso, coffee, tea, and specialty beverages according to Reed's Bistro standards.
· Maintain consistency in beverage quality, presentation, and preparation times.
· Dial in espresso and routinely monitor beverage quality throughout each shift.
· Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked coffee station.
· Provide friendly, professional, and efficient guest service.
· Accurately process guest orders and payments using the Toast POS system.
· Answer guest questions and provide menu and beverage recommendations.
· Educate guests on coffee offerings, menu items, and seasonal specials.
· Promote featured beverages, pastries, and other café offerings.
· Assist with light food preparation, pastry plating, and other café support duties.
· Maintain cleanliness and organization of customer-facing and back-of-house café areas.
· Restock supplies, paper products, beverages, and retail items as needed.
· Operate, clean, and maintain espresso machines, coffee grinders, and other café equipment.
· Report equipment issues and maintenance needs to the Manager on Duty.
· Complete opening and closing procedures, including station setup, cleaning, stocking, and equipment shutdown.
· Support fellow team members to ensure efficient daily operations and an exceptional guest experience.
Essential Physical Functions:
· Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods.
· Must be able to lift and carry up to 30 lbs.
· Must be able to perform repetitive motions, including reaching, bending, and lifting throughout the workday.
· Must be able to work efficiently in a fast-paced café environment.
Qualifications:
· High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
· Must be at least 16 years of age.
· One year of café, barista, restaurant, or customer service experience preferred.
· Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
· Ability to multitask and remain organized in a fast-paced environment.
· Experience using a point-of-sale (POS) system, preferably Toast, is preferred.
· Must possess or be able to obtain a valid Food Handler Card by the start date of employment.
· Flexible availability, including mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.
Reports to: Front of House Manager
Benefits:
· Staff discounts on programming & gift shop. NBG logo wear for work provided.
· EAP services for all employees.
· Discounted employee meals
Salary: $17.00 an hour
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: NBG is committed to the principles and ideals of equal employment opportunity. It is, and shall continue to be, the policy and practice throughout NBG to foster equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for applicants, employees, and volunteers without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition including lactation, status as a veteran or other protected status, if qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Pay: $17.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
